Dubai is a country where everything is just meant to be the biggest and the best of all trends. Here we will find the world’s tallest building, the largest artificial islands, the richest horse race course, the biggest shopping occasions, the most beautiful mall, and the most luxurious hotels. After spending 3 weeks in the city, I felt as if I have come back with a good understanding of how Dubai works, and I picked up some great tips along the way. Here are the things you need to know before visiting .

PUBLIC AREAS

In public areas sectors such as malls, cafes, the airport, public transport, men, and women are expected to dress decently. Whilst nobody is going to call the fashion police if you’re showing too much skin, it’s far better to think like a savvy traveller and be respectful of the local culture. Pair a maxi skirt and t-shirt with some glamorous jewellery and sandals for a modest yet stylish look.

HOTELS

Hotels are seen as ‘international zones’ where standard holiday/beach / hot weather attire is perfectly acceptable. It is quite understandable that one must not loiter around the hotel lobby in your bikini and shorts, but all of that is absolutely fine by the pool and beach. There are many beach clubs where you can lounge in with your beachwear and bikinis all day.

ADVANCE BOOKING OF RESTAURANTS

If you’re going out for dinner, search for a restaurant in and make up a reservation in advance. Unlike many other busy cities, it’s not so easy to just hang up together and get a table. Table booking in advance is a must.

THE RULES AROUND ALCHOHOL

There are plenty of great independent restaurants in Dubai, but none of them are licensed to serve alcohol. If you’re planning to have a few pages of drinks, make sure that you’re going to the restaurants and bars that are within a hotel complex.

TAXIS IN DUBAI

The taxi rates in Dubai are not similar to that of any other country. This makes taxi a cheap and handy mode of transportation of getting around the city. There are a number of taxis on road. The meter starts at 5ADE.

THE CALL TO PRAYER

The Islamic Call to Prayer can be heard from pretty much anywhere in the city. All of the mosques are wired up to public speaker systems and the call is heard from the minaret 5 times a day.